Overview
Gum disease starts as gingivitis — red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing — and can progress to periodontitis, where the bone holding the teeth is destroyed and teeth loosen. It is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, yet the early stage is fully reversible with proper cleaning.
Symptoms
- Gums bleeding when brushing or eating
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between teeth and gums
Causes & risk factors
- Plaque build-up from inadequate brushing and flossing
- Hardened tartar that brushing cannot remove
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Diabetes worsening gum infection
- Hormonal changes in pregnancy
Treatment & self-care
Professional scaling removes the tartar driving the inflammation, after which thorough twice-daily brushing and daily cleaning between teeth keep gums healthy — bleeding gums need more cleaning, not less. Advanced disease needs deeper cleaning and dental follow-up. Diabetics and smokers should be especially vigilant.
See a doctor urgently if
- Gums bleeding regularly despite good brushing
- Loose teeth or gums visibly receding
- Pus, swelling or bad taste from the gums
- Painful, ulcerated gums with fever